Here’s a fun, useful, and luscious giveaway especially for VegKitchen readers, brought to you by my friend and talented colleague, Laura Theodore, also known as The Jazzy Vegetarian.One fortunate reader will receive The Best of Jazzy Vegetarian 3-DISC, DVD Set— fans of this highly successful series know that vegan chef Laura Theodore can turn any meal into a delicious special occasion.

We most often associate potato salads with summer fare — potlucks, barbecues, and picnics. But there’s no reason not to enjoy robust potato salads all year round. Here are a few favorites that incorporate ingredients that are available any time. Serve potato salads as hearty side dishes with veggie burgers or other sandwich fare; a helping of potato salad is a nice change of pace for a portable lunch, too. First up — Warm Mediterranean Potato Salad, enhanced with zucchini and artichoke hearts, can be made any time of year. Its seasonal personality enhanced by either rosemary (for cooler months) or basil (for warmer weather). more→

With all the dark leafy greens and nutrient-dense seeds (like chia and hemp) out there, it’s easy to overlook common veggies like carrots as super foods. Carrots are a powerhouse veggie by any standard, rich in beta carotene and vitamin C. And in culinary terms, few vegetables can rival the versatility of carrots, which can star in soups, salads, roasted dishes, sides, and even delectable desserts. Creole Creamy Carrot Soup, shown above, has a cheery orange color, and if good, fresh carrots are used, a subtly sweet flavor. more→

Red lentils cook quickly, so they’re a good choice when you want a hearty, filling soup in little time. Adding a couple of cups of pumpkin or butternut squash puree adds to the orange-y goodness of this soup — and cauliflower and spinach contribute to its overall veggie-packed deliciousness. Serve this main-dish soup with a fresh flatbread and a simple salad. Photos by Evan Atlas.more→